NASCAR is set to hold a street race at Naval Base Coronado in Southern California next June. This event will replace the Chicago race that took place for the last three years. While this shift does not rule out a future return to Chicago, NASCAR is excited about the new venue, especially as the nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy.
The San Diego race weekend, scheduled for June 19-21, will showcase all three of NASCAR’s national series. Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s executive vice president, expressed pride in partnering with the Navy for this event. “We are honored to host our first street race at a military base,” he said. “It’s a great way to pay tribute to the Navy’s history and those who serve.”
This upcoming race will mark just the second street race in NASCAR’s history and the first to take place on an active military base. The course is anticipated to be around three miles long, although the exact layout is still being finalized.
NASCAR has been making changes, including the closing of Auto Club Speedway after the 2023 race and moving events to North Carolina. Kennedy, a key figure behind these new endeavors, is enthusiastic about bringing racing to new audiences, such as in Mexico City and now San Diego.
Navy Secretary John C. Phelan emphasized the significance of hosting NASCAR on the base, stating that it represents teamwork and dedication—values shared by both the Navy and NASCAR. Naval Base Coronado is a central hub for nine Navy installations along the West Coast, providing a historic backdrop for this event.
Additionally, NASCAR has appointed Amy Lupo as the event’s president. Lupo, who has been involved with NASCAR since 2021, will oversee the transition to this new race. Historically, she has extensive experience in sports marketing, having previously worked with ESPN on the X Games.
This new venture promises to highlight the spirit of America through the thrilling blend of speed and patriotism, showcasing the deep-rooted connection between motorsports and the military.
